TIMBER PRICES
The price paid for standing trees (stumpage) has no set value.  There are no daily market price reports for stumpage.  Several variables affect the price paid for standing timber:

• Species - price varies widely with location and changing market demands
• Quality - trees with fewer defects (branch scars, decay) have higher quality and more valuable wood
• Size - large trees will have more volume and clear wood than smaller trees
• Location - distance to the mill and site accessibility can lower hauling costs
• Size and Volume - stumpage values will generally increase with both volume and acreage
• Logging Challenges - special conditions (steepness of terrain, soil moisture) can affect the equipment used and the speed of the harvest
• Market Competition - competitive bidding, unusual harvesting conditions, specialized products, poor markets
• Contract Provisions - restrictions placed upon the timber sale contract can increase logging costs

Actual production volume is usually determined at the mill but the volume of standing timber can be estimated using one of several methods.  After selecting and clearly marking the trees to be harvested, Claybourn Walters' experienced foresters will estimate the wood volume.  Remember, Claybourn Walters Company has over fifty years experience conducting timber cruises to estimate quality, volume and value of forestland.